Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball bounced back in a big way Sunday night, rallying from a halftime deficit to defeat Florida 82–66 inside Memorial Gymnasium. The win snapped a two-game skid and lifted the No. 21 Commodores to 21–2 overall and 7–2 in SEC play.
After struggling offensively in the first half, Vanderbilt trailed 34–25 at the break, shooting just 32 percent from the field and going without a free throw attempt. Head coach Shea Ralph emphasized resilience postgame, pointing to the team’s recent adversity as preparation for postseason play.
The momentum shifted dramatically after halftime, led by Mikayla Blakes’ explosive performance. Blakes poured in 30 points, including 24 in the second half, to spark the comeback. Sacha Washington and Justine Pissott each added 14 points, while Aubrey Galvan and Aga Makurat contributed nine apiece.
Washington ignited Vanderbilt’s third-quarter surge by establishing a strong presence in the paint, earning the Commodores their first free throws of the game and providing consistent scoring inside. Defensive intensity followed, highlighted by charges drawn by Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda and timely steals that fueled fast-break opportunities.
Vanderbilt seized its first lead late in the third quarter and closed the frame on a dominant 14–2 run, capped by a Galvan buzzer-beating three to take a 57–46 advantage. The Commodores never looked back, knocking down timely shots from beyond the arc and maintaining control throughout the fourth quarter.
Florida attempted to respond behind Liv McGill, but Vanderbilt’s balanced offense and improved defensive execution proved too much. The Commodores cruised to the 82–66 victory, reaffirming their home-court dominance and resilience after a challenging road stretch.
Vanderbilt will look to carry the momentum into its next matchup on the road at Kentucky on Feb. 5.
